Winderlea Vineyard's Ana Vineyard Pinot noir 06 is wonderfully defined, showing a pure Pinot noir varietal character. Delicate and complex, it has a lovely freshness and vitality. The tannins are light and lacy, the finish is lengthy and harmonious. Nothing is forced here- the wine goes no further than necesary to fully express the beauty of the vine.
Anna Vineyard lies south and east of Winderlea (see map above), and Ana Vineyard owner Andy Humphrey managed Winderlea's vines (then Goldschmidt) for many years. The Winderlea Ana Vineyard designate Pinot is made from a combination of 80% Pommard and 20% DIion clone fruit, and was aged in 30% new oak, 70% one and two year old Chardonnay barrels.
Of the three 2006 Winderlea offerings, this charming Pinot most strongly shows the owners' goal of producing feminine and elegant wines. The lightest in color of the 2006 Winderlea Pinots, its transparency belies its intense scents and flavors. A bounteous bouquet of red cherry, dried black cherry, anise and a hint of spice announce the wine. Flavors of sweet red cherry and raspberry join with hints of dried seed spices and minerals to expand in the mouth.
The Ana is wonderfully defined, showing a pure Pinot noir varietal character. Delicate and complex, it has a lovely freshness and vitality. The tannins are light and lacy, the finish is lengthy and harmonious. Nothing is forced here- the wine goes no further than necesary to fully express the beauty of the vine.